ThisWeek , Direct Energy to recognize community service

Direct Energy and ThisWeek Community News announce the launch of the first-ever Columbus Small Business Community Heroes award program.

Direct Energy and ThisWeek Community News announce the launch of the first-ever Columbus Small Business Community Heroes award program.

Nominations are being accepted until May 29.

The online nomination form can be found by visiting directenergy.com/heroes.

The Small Business Community Heroes award program is designed to recognize the significant efforts of small business owners, with 100 employees or less, whose voluntary contributions make their communities a better place to live.

"We couldn't be happier to be working with ThisWeek Community News to bring this honorable award program to the Columbus region," said Steve Girard, head of small business for Direct Energy Business. "Direct Energy has a major presence in Columbus and we are dedicated to investing in the communities in which we live, work and serve our customers. We applaud all of the wonderful volunteers and look forward to recognizing those small business owners that devote their time for the greater good of the community."

The award itself consists of:

* $500 cash prize to the winner

* $2,000 donation to the winner's 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization/cause of choice in their respective community.

The Small Business Community Heroes award is open to all residents of communities in the ThisWeek Community News circulation areas. Individuals can either nominate themselves or be nominated by another individual or group.

Nominations should be no longer than 750 words and must detail the specific contributions the small business owner has made to improve the community through volunteer service. In addition, the nomination needs to include a write-up of no more than 250 words about the nominee's small business.

"With our focus on central Ohio communities and the people who live and work in them, we are pleased to partner with Direct Energy on this program that recognizes the good works done by the owners and employees of small businesses. Our readers have a unique opportunity to participate by nominating a businessperson who truly has made a difference in the lives of others," said Roy Biondi, publisher of ThisWeek Community News.

Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. May 29. A selection committee from Direct Energy and ThisWeek Community News will review all submissions, and the winner will be announced in June. Complete rules, the official nomination form and all other information are available online at directenergy.com/heroes.

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